Celtics’ Sullinger suspended for opener

The Boston Celtics’ Jared Sullinger, right, makes a pass as Minnesota Timberwolves guard Ricky Rubio defends during the first quarter of a preseason game in Montreal on Oct. 20.
Graham Hughes — The Canadian Press

TORONTO >> Boston forward Jared Sullinger was suspended for the Celtics’ season-opening game Wednesday night against Toronto, two days after a judge dismissed domestic violence charges against him.

Sullinger did not travel with the team to Toronto after the Celtics handed down the penalty.

Sullinger pleaded not guilty last month to charges including assault and battery and intimidation of a witness after his girlfriend, Deann Smith, told police he repeatedly pinned her to a bed and floor Aug. 31. A judge dismissed those charges Monday after Smith said she would refuse to testify against him.

Sullinger averaged 6.0 points and 5.9 rebounds in 45 games as a rookie last season. He is expected to return Friday night for the home opener against Milwaukee.